By Doreen Ling
BETONG, June 23: SMK Pusa has seen a surge in its student attendance and academic performance, benefiting from improved hostel facilities following a PETRONAS-backed initiative that upgraded four hostel blocks and provided beds, mattresses, and lockers.
Speaking during the officiation of the PETRONAS ‘Empowering Knowledge: MLNG Bestari Outreach Programme’ at SMK Pusa here today, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, highlighted the vital role school hostels play in shaping students’ education.
The scope of upgrades for four student hostel blocks includes the installation of ceiling fans, improvements to the electrical wiring system, installation of window mesh screens, provision of washing machines, and the contribution of 300 beds, 300 mattresses, and 300 lockers.
He noted that when he visited the school in 2024, it had an attendance rate of below 90 per cent, which did not meet the State’s criteria of a 95 per cent attendance rate for every school.
“After asking about attendance, I asked how many students were staying in the hostel, and the principal replied that many did not want to stay (in the hostel).
“There were probably reasons for that. Hostels have certain restrictions—students cannot use mobile phones freely, there is no television, and there are other limitations. At the same time, some students can get to school easily because their families own vehicles, while others use school buses,” he said.
However, he noted that not every family could do so, which was why boarding schools and hostels are important for students.
After visiting the hostel and seeing the condition it was in, Dr Annuar said he approached PETRONAS to help the school, following which the school’s attendance rate has risen to 97 per cent.
At the same time, the principal also said that all its hostel students achieved full passes in their examinations.
He said it was important to identify problems and issues within hostels so that students can feel comfortable and at ease, which could, in turn, positively impact their studies.
“They will feel that living in the hostel is more conducive than staying at home. Some students come from homes where space is limited and not ideal for studying.
“Hostels should provide a better environment than what some students have at home. If a hostel cannot offer a better environment, then there is little point in students staying there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysia LNG Group of Companies managing director and chief executive officer (CEO), Abang Jimmy Abang Mordian, said the initiative reflects PETRONAS’ strong commitment to supporting educational development in Sarawak.
“PETRONAS believes that education is the best investment for the future. Through continuous efforts and close collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and the community, we can create more opportunities for the younger generation to realise their full potential.
“I used to stay in a hostel in Kuching. I understand that the living conditions can be challenging. Therefore, I hope this assistance will benefit and help make the living environment better for students to focus on their studies.
“Who knows, one of you here will stand in my place in the future,” he said during the event, whereby audio recordings of Dr Annuar and Abang Jimmy’s speeches were made available to DayakDaily. — DayakDaily
